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Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Passive Administration of Monoclonal Antibodies Against H. capsulatum and Others Fungal Pathogens
Published on: February 14, 2011
[Histoplasmosis (infection with Histoplasma capsulatum, capsulatum variety)]
V Pădeanu1, Mădălina Dragoş, Rodica Radu
1Spitalul de Pneumologie Baia Mare.
Abstract:
Histoplasmosis is an endemic mycosis in some regions in the US, but it can be more and more often imported to Europe. One of the clinical characters of the infection is the variety of shapes it can have, many similar to tuberculosis. It can be associated to HIV infection, being the most frequent mycosis in these patients in endemic regions. Diagnosis is based on evidence of mycotic filaments on microscopy or culture. Treatment consists of Amphotericin B and Itraconazole, the latter being also the foundation of primary and secondary prevention.
Insights
Histoplasmosis, a fungal infection, is spreading globally and mimics tuberculosis. Diagnosis involves microscopy or culture, with Amphotericin B and Itraconazole as key treatments for prevention and cure.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Histoplasmosis is an endemic fungal infection in parts of the US.
- Increasingly, imported cases are reported in Europe.
- The infection presents with diverse clinical manifestations, often resembling tuberculosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the clinical characteristics and diagnostic methods of histoplasmosis.
- To discuss treatment and prevention strategies for this mycosis.
- To address the growing concern of imported histoplasmosis cases in non-endemic regions.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis relies on identifying fungal elements via microscopy.
- Culture methods are also employed for definitive diagnosis.
- Clinical presentation and epidemiological data inform diagnosis and management.
Main Results:
- Histoplasmosis can present with varied clinical forms, some mimicking tuberculosis.
- It is the most common mycosis in HIV-infected individuals in endemic areas.
- Amphotericin B and Itraconazole are established treatments.
Conclusions:
- Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing histoplasmosis.
- Itraconazole plays a vital role in both treatment and prophylaxis.
- Awareness of imported cases is essential for public health in Europe.
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